Coenzyme Q10 is an important compound which exists naturally in the mitochondria of cells, and which plays an important part in the production of adenosine triphosphate, also known as ATP. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, ATP precipitates a number of essential biological processes, including muscle contraction and protein production. This nutrient is thought to benefit heart and blood pressure conditions, the immune system, and disease fighting through its antioxidant properties. It is also thought to prevent high blood pressure during pregnancy, also known as preeclampsia. Talk to your doctor before beginning any supplement regimen.
History
According to Medline Plus, coenzyme Q10 was first observed and categorized in 1957. This discovery, by Professor F. Crane at the University of Wisconsin, was followed up in 1958 by the identification of its chemical structure by researchers at Merck Laboratories, reports Michael B. Schacter, director of the Schacter Center for Complementary Medicine. Human tests using Q10 began in Japan in 1963, and in 1974 Japanese scientists reported its benefits in addressing heart disease. Schacter reports that Q10 has only recently enjoyed widespread use in the United States. It is not considered a medical treatment for any condition.
Significance
As studies continue to demonstrate Q10's potential efficacy in addressing high blood pressure, heart disease, cancer, preeclampsia, Parkinson's disease and more, some researchers have come to view this vitamin as having far-reaching therapeutic potential. Q10 is also sometimes taken for longevity and anti-aging, since levels of Q10 are highest in your 20s and are significantly reduced by age 80, reports Medline Plus. While the implications of these various potential benefits are encouraging, more research is needed to verify their validity.
Features
In pregnancy, coenzyme Q10 has also shown some effectiveness in decreasing preeclampsia risk in pregnant women. A study published in the "Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology" studied the effects of Q10 supplementation in 235 women at risk for developing preeclampsia. In this study, led by Enrique Teran of Central University of Ecuador, the women were randomly chosen to receive either 200 milligrams of coenzyme Q10 or placebo. This dosage was administered only after week 20 of pregnancy, which is considered the appropriate time to begin supplementation of Q10. While 25.6 percent of those in the placebo group developed preeclampsia, only 14.4 percent in the Q10 group had this effect.
Warning
Although the studies to date on coenzyme Q10 for preeclampsia seem promising, the University of Maryland Medical Center website cautions that although no side effects have been noted, pregnant women and breastfeeding women should avoid this supplement. This warning is due to the fact that the effects of Q10 in pregnancy and lactation are not fully known. For this reason, University of Maryland Medical Center advises that women wait until more information becomes available. Medline Plus also notes there is currently "insufficient evidence" to back up Q10's purported benefits for preeclampsia.
Considerations
Although coenzyme Q10 does appear to show promise thus far in its use in pregnant women starting at week 20, some experts are taking a more cautious approach in endorsing its use. As in all matters during your pregnancy, you should discuss possible Q10 supplementation with your obstetrician, who is familiar with your individual case.
